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A dating scan is an early pregnancy ultrasound, usually between 6 and 10 weeks, that confirms the pregnancy, checks for a heartbeat and works out your due date.
Also called: Pregnancy dating ultrasound, First pregnancy scan, 6 week scan, 8 week scan, Due date scan
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102 clinics offer bulk billing for ultrasound — eligibility varies
Where to get a dating scan
104 clinics across Australia on Radly offer ultrasound.
Clinics for a dating scan on Radly
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What is a dating scan?
The dating scan is often the first look at a new pregnancy. The sonographer measures the baby from head to bottom (the crown–rump length), which is the most accurate way to estimate how many weeks pregnant you are and set your due date.
At this early stage the baby is very small, so the scan is frequently done transvaginally with a slim, covered internal probe. This gives a much clearer picture and is gentle and quick. If you would prefer a tummy scan only, let the sonographer know.
The scan also confirms the pregnancy is in the uterus, checks for a heartbeat and shows whether you are carrying one baby or more.
Why your doctor might request a dating scan
- Setting an accurate due date, especially if your periods are irregular
- Confirming a heartbeat
- Checking the pregnancy is in the uterus
- Finding out if there are twins or more
- Dating the pregnancy before first-trimester screening
Dating scan: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your dating scan
- Drink water beforehand so your bladder is comfortably full, unless the clinic says otherwise.
- If a transvaginal scan is likely, you will be asked to empty your bladder first and given privacy to undress from the waist down.
- Bring your referral, Medicare card and the date of your last period if you know it.
How long it takes: About 20–30 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
You need a referral from your GP, obstetrician or midwife for a Medicare rebate. Many clinics bulk bill early pregnancy scans, though some charge a gap. The clinic confirms billing when it accepts your booking request.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
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Find clinics near you for your dating scan and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Dating scan FAQs
How early can you have a dating scan?
A heartbeat can often be seen from around 6–7 weeks, so many doctors request the scan from 7 weeks onwards. Scanning too early can give an inconclusive result and mean a repeat scan.
Will my dating scan be internal?
Often, yes, at this stage. A transvaginal scan gives clearer images of a very early pregnancy. You can always ask questions or decline, and the sonographer will explain the options.
Can my due date change after the dating scan?
The early measurement is the most reliable guide, so your due date is usually set from this scan and not changed by later ones.
How do I book a dating scan online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select Ultrasound as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get a dating scan?
Appointments for ultrasound are usually 1–3 days, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
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